
The Velvet-purple Coronet (Boissonneaua jardini) is a colorful hummingbird species found in the forests of Colombia. It has a predominantly green plumage, a vibrant purple throat, and a long, curved bill. It hovers near flowers, feeding on nectar using its long tongue. It is known for its territorial behavior and its aerial displays. This medium-sized hummingbird looks all blackish in poor light, but at the right angle, it turns into a dazzling gem with a purple belly and crown, turquoise sides, and greenish wing coverts. Note bright white flashes in the tail. Like other coronets, it holds its wings up for a few seconds when it lands, exposing rich chestnut underwings. Sexes similar. Very restricted range in western Colombia and Ecuador, where it is generally uncommon in moist cloud forest and edges in the lower subtropical zone.
Habitats & Distribution
The Velvet-purple Coronet inhabits the humid montane forests of the Andean slopes in Colombia and Ecuador. This vibrant species is predominantly found at elevations ranging between 900 to 2,300 meters, where it thrives in the lush, dense vegetation. Its preferred environments include cloud forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, which provide abundant food sources such as nectar-producing flowers and a variety of insects. Geographically, the Velvet-purple Coronet's range is relatively limited, being confined to the western Andes. Within this range, it is often observed in protected areas and forest reserves that support its specialized habitat requirements. The combination of altitude, climate, and forest density creates an ideal habitat for this striking hummingbird, allowing it to maintain stable populations within its specific ecological niche.
Behaviours & Reproduction
The Velvet-purple Coronet exhibits intriguing reproductive behaviors and social structures. Males are known for their territorial nature, often aggressively defending their feeding areas from other males. During courtship, males perform elaborate aerial displays and vocalizations to attract females. These courtship displays are not only vital for attracting mates but also for asserting dominance within their territories. Once a female chooses a mate, she is solely responsible for nest building, incubation, and chick-rearing. The nests are usually constructed on slender branches, made from soft plant materials and spider webs, providing camouflage and protection. Breeding typically occurs during the rainy season when food sources are abundant. The female lays one or two eggs, which she incubates for about 16-19 days. After hatching, the chicks are altricial, meaning they are born blind and helpless, requiring significant parental investment. The mother feeds them a rich diet of insects and nectar until they fledge, usually around 20-26 days after hatching. This reproductive strategy ensures that the young are well-fed and protected during their most vulnerable stages, enhancing their chances of survival.
Diet
Nectar, small insects
Colors
Purple belly and crown, turquoise sides, and greenish wing coverts
Fun Facts
Visits feeders. The males of this species perform elaborate courtship displays, involving aerial chases and dives, showing off their vibrant plumage to attract a mate.
Conservation Status & Efforts
The Velvet-purple Coronet is currently listed as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List. However, its population trend is decreasing, primarily due to habitat loss and degradation driven by deforestation for agriculture and logging. This hummingbird is endemic to the humid montane forests in the western Andes of Colombia and northwestern Ecuador, where these threats are most pronounced. Efforts to conserve the Velvet-purple Coronet include the establishment of protected areas and reserves, such as the Mindo-Nambillo Reserve in Ecuador, which safeguards critical habitats. Conservation groups are also working on reforestation projects and promoting sustainable land use practices to mitigate forest destruction. Additionally, environmental education programs aim to raise awareness among local communities about the importance of conserving this species and its ecosystem.